Sound — 9
A great sounding amp, suited to all styles except maybe metal. It is just too clear sounding for it. Some more experienced players may be able to do something with it though. A nice GP7 pre amp is hard to get to grips with but can be adjusted easily with 'practice'. I've tried it with loads of basses like the cheaper 'Squires' and 'Arias' as well as a original '78 Jazz bass. Sounds very nice and warm with a OLP MM2.

Overall Impression — 8
Second hand at 270 wasn't bad. Great sounds and tones, but what an ugly looking thing. It's like the ugly duckling. Nasty to look at but great on the inside so ignore the eyesore. I think it has great potential for pros as well as the beginner and will work very well at a gig or in a studio. If you are looking for one, make sure you get a manual with it because I still don't know what half of these buttons do.

Reliability & Durability — 5
Built like a tank. It's like that brainiac experiment trying to open that safe. It's indestructible! Wood, rubber metal and plastic make a great amplifier great for kicking about. Don't worry about it in the back of your van. However it is far too heavy for my liking. And I'm a big lad. It's heavier than my brothers half stack.

Features — 9
This Trace is no longer in production but many are available second hand. It's worth every penny. It has so many settings you can match any players sound in no time, one you've got your head round all the seven graphic EQ levers. It has 80 watts worth of power but when given an extra slap thud it boosts. It is definitely enough for a small venue gig. The ten inch speaker is a beast especially with it's accurate EQ balance. Plus all the usual stuff like a headphone jack, and a very annoying and distracting overload LED light!